Destination vs. Local Weddings: Which is Right for You?

Imagine your wedding day.

Are you exchanging vows on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean, with the sea’s gentle rhythm below and sunlit skies above? Or perhaps you’re celebrating in the timeless charm of a local vineyard, surrounded by family and friends who know you best.

Maybe the romance of a Tuscan villa calls to you, with cobblestone paths winding through olive groves for an intimate escape. Or maybe a historic estate close to home feels just right, with every corner steeped in tradition and personal significance.

At Zion Springs, with over 400 weddings hosted, we bring unparalleled expertise to helping couples make choices that reflect their vision.

In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at destination vs local weddings, exploring how each style brings its own distinctive charm to your big day. Whether you dream of the magic of a far-flung destination or the warmth and familiarity of a celebration close to home, this guide will help you weigh the essential factors that make each choice special.

A destination wedding invites you and your guests to an exceptional setting, from a sunlit beach in the Maldives to a castle in Ireland or a villa in Tuscany. These venues blend celebration with travel, creating a shared, scenic experience for all. Destination venues often include on-site accommodations and all-inclusive packages, making them ideal for smaller, more intimate guest lists.

Services

Destination venues simplify planning by providing services such as:

• On-site day-of coordination to manage logistics.
• Local planning experts familiar with area vendors and customs, aligning each detail with the style and requirements of the location.
• Vendor bundles covering decor, catering, and photography.

Example: Resorts in the Caribbean typically offer all-in-one wedding planning, while European venues may collaborate with local planners to manage region-specific requirements.

Amenities

Destination venues offer amenities that combine comfort with a travel experience, such as:

• On-site accommodations or partnerships with nearby hotels for easy guest lodging.
• Transportation from airports, ensuring seamless arrivals and departures.
• Scenic indoor and outdoor spaces, from oceanfront terraces to vineyard backdrops.

Many also organize excursions and group activities, transforming your wedding into a full travel experience for guests.

Planning and Logistics

Organizing a destination wedding often requires remote planning and flexibility. Consider these tips:

• Coordinate digitally: Rely on virtual meetings with vendors.
• Research local laws: Check marriage requirements early, especially for international locations.
• Plan guest travel: Arrange group rates for flights and lodging if possible.

Related: The Ultimate Guide: Questions to Ask on Your Wedding Venue Tour

Pro Tip: For international weddings, consult the local embassy about marriage laws. Some couples opt for a legal ceremony at home to simplify paperwork.

Guest Experience

Destination weddings turn your celebration into a travel experience for guests. Here are a few ways to enhance it:

• Offer excursions: Organize activities like snorkeling or wine tours.
• Create welcome packages: Include local treats or a small itinerary to guide guests.
• Encourage flexible stays: Provide details on extended stay options for guests who want to explore.

Example: One couple planning a beach wedding in the Caribbean used a custom app for guests with dining options, excursions, and directions, creating a vacation experience.

Pricing

Destination wedding packages generally range from $10,000–$30,000, with premium options sometimes reaching $50,000 or more. Couples should budget for:

• Personal expenses: Accommodations, travel, and optional activities.
• Guest expenses: Flights, hotel stays, and travel documents if needed. While it’s not required to cover these, offering accommodation suggestions at varied price points is thoughtful.

Related: What’s the Most Expensive Part of a Wedding?

Looking for more insights on the destination vs. local debate? Check out this Reddit discussion on destination vs. traditional weddings to see what real couples and guests have to say about each option!

A local wedding brings the ease of celebrating close to home, where family and friends can gather without travel concerns. Nearby venues, like gardens, historic estates, and city lofts, allow you to refine each detail, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Services

Unlike destination weddings, local venues provide convenience with nearby vendors and flexible planning. Couples can choose between DIY-friendly services or comprehensive packages. Options include:

• Day-of coordination or full-service planning to match your preferred level of involvement.
• Connections to local vendors familiar with the venue, each offering customization to reflect your vision.
• Flexible vendor packages, whether you need full support or specific services.

Related: Selecting Ideal Wedding Vendors for Your Special Day

Amenities

Local wedding venues focus on guest comfort and accessibility, offering:

• Indoor and outdoor event spaces tailored for ceremonies and receptions of all sizes.
• Bridal suites and preparation areas for convenience.
• Extensive parking and ADA-compliant facilities, ensuring accessibility.

Planning and Logistics

Local weddings allow greater control over each aspect. Unlike destination weddings, local events allow for regular vendor meetings and last-minute adjustments. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Meet vendors in person: Schedule planning sessions to finalize details.
• Plan for last-minute changes: Local access provides flexibility to adjust plans.
• Consider backup plans: For outdoor venues, prepare for weather changes.

Guest Experience

Local weddings keep travel manageable for guests and make attendance easier. Consider these additions:

• Arrange transportation: Provide shuttles or group rides from a central location.
• Accessibility options: Choose a venue with parking, ADA compliance, and easy navigation.

Example: A couple hosting a local event arranged shuttle services from a nearby hotel, allowing guests to relax without worrying about logistics.

Pricing

Local wedding costs generally range from $5,000 to $20,000, with more elaborate celebrations potentially exceeding this range. Consider budgeting for:

• Venue and catering costs: Many venues offer bundled packages with catering included, simplifying overall planning and offering a cost-effective option.
• Customizable vendor choices: Local venues offer a range of trusted vendor options, from photography to florals, allowing you to personalize your wedding without incurring extra travel or setup fees.
• Guest-friendly tip: Consider suggesting nearby accommodations and shuttle options for out-of-town guests to make their experience more seamless.

Q: How can I make my local wedding feel like a destination celebration?
Bring the ambiance of a far-off locale to your local wedding with themed decor, regional cuisine, and activities that create a vacation-like experience.

Q: What are the risks of peak season weddings?
Availability, costs, and travel logistics can be impacted during peak seasons. Planning ahead helps avoid common challenges.

Q: How can I handle weather challenges for outdoor weddings?
Outdoor weddings carry weather risks, so having a backup plan and monitoring seasonal trends can keep you prepared, whether at home or abroad.

Choosing between a destination and a local wedding venue depends on your vision for your day. Each option offers something special, but the best choice aligns with your priorities.

If you’re looking for an escape-like setting, a destination wedding could be perfect. For ease and accessibility, a local wedding might be ideal, allowing more friends and family to join with less travel planning. At Zion Springs, we’re here to make the process enjoyable, with beautiful settings and supportive planning services to bring your wedding vision to life.

Plan Your Dream Wedding in 12 Months: Follow our 12-Month Wedding Planning Timeline to stay on track and make your celebration stress-free, whether you’re planning close to home or a destination getaway.

Ready to see what’s possible? Take a virtual tour or explore our planning resources on our Answers and Advice page to start planning a day you’ll cherish forever!